Exarchos & AKTOR-DEPA: LNG as Greece’s Geoeconomic Bet in the Balkans

Through high geoeconomic strategy, Alexandros Exarchos and AKTOR are positioning Greece as an LNG hub for the Balkans and the MENA region.

Greece at the Center of Geoeconomic Influence

The initiative led by Alexandros Exarchos through ATLANTIC – SEE LNG TRADE S.A. establishes strong geoeconomic footholds for Greece. The AKTOR – DEPA Trading joint venture, with a 60%-40% shareholding respectively, aims to import LNG primarily from the U.S. and distribute it across Southeast Europe and beyond.

This move is not just business-driven; it is a strategic geopolitical maneuver, positioning Greece as a key player in infrastructure development and energy mix decisions across the MENA region and the Balkans.

Strategic Orientation: Exports and Diversification

ATLANTIC Chairman Konstantinos Xifaras emphasized:

“The establishment of ATLANTIC – SEE LNG TRADE aligns with DEPA Trading’s strategy to strengthen its outward orientation and regional presence. Our goal is to diversify supply sources and enhance energy security.”

The company will channel LNG shipments primarily from the U.S., creating a reliable and stable energy network for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. The export-oriented strategy solidifies Greece as a strategic energy hub while enhancing its geopolitical influence.

Alexandros Exarchos’ Vision

Alexandros Exarchos, CEO of ATLANTIC and AKTOR Group, stated:“Global geopolitical shifts present historic opportunities. Our collaboration with DEPA highlights Greece’s central role in the European energy landscape, leveraging new international economic conditions.”

This move reflects AKTOR’s corporate transformation, expanding its presence in energy markets and capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the global LNG sector, while strengthening critical infrastructure.

Timing and Geopolitical Significance

The ATLANTIC initiative coincides with the arrival of U.S. Ambassador to Greece, Kimberly Guilfoyle, who has energy security as a priority on her agenda.

This demonstrates the venture’s geoeconomic importance, combining strategic political support and technical expertise, with AKTOR positioned to construct key LNG infrastructure.

Infrastructure as the Key

To establish ATLANTIC and secure stable LNG flows, Greece will need:

• Comprehensive political frameworks for supplier diversification,
• Construction of new LNG facilities,
• Partnerships with international LNG players to ensure sustainable and strategic investment.

ATLANTIC will reinforce the Vertical Corridor and utilize the Alexandroupoli FSRU, ensuring energy security and cross-border gas flows, connecting the Greek market with global LNG supply chains.

AKTOR & DEPA: Strategic Alliance

AKTOR, with 70 years of experience in large-scale technical projects and strategic investments, leverages its expertise to establish Greece as a regional energy hub in Southeast Europe.

DEPA Trading, with an investment program exceeding €250 million for 2025–2028, focuses on:

• LNG and natural gas infrastructure,
• Power generation and renewables,
• International trade agreements, expanding Greece’s integration into global LNG markets.

The AKTOR – DEPA partnership enhances Greece’s strategic relevance and strengthens its presence in the Southeast European energy market.

The launch of ATLANTIC – SEE LNG TRADE S.A. marks a geoeconomic milestone for Greece.

With strategic infrastructure investment, export orientation, strong international partnerships, and geostrategic foresight, Greece is emerging as a stable, reliable, and influential energy hub for the Balkans, Eastern Europe, and the MENA region, shaping the next phase of LNG development in the region.

Source: pagenews.gr